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Fluorescent light bulbs are commonly used in photographic light and kitchen light fixtures. A fuse is the first place to check when a fluorescent light fixture will not light up after the switch is turned on. When the fuse is blown, electricity cannot flow from the power source into the lamps inside of the bulb. The fuse is the least expensive and simplest repair to make. If fuses continue to blow, it indicates a transistor or the ballast has malfunctioned.

1

Turn off the electrical current to the light at the breaker box. Test the light switch to verify there is no power running to it by turning it to the “On” position. Unplug the light fixture from the wall if it is not wired into your home's electrical system.

2

Grasp the ends of the bulb gently and twist it upward and toward the front to remove it from the fixture. Alternately, on some light fixtures the bulb swings outward slightly first, then pulls away from the fixture.

3

Unscrew the cap on the end of the bulb and dislodge the fuse holder. Pull out the old fuse and look for signs of damage. Many newer fuses have a sticker in place that dislodges or changes color when the fuse is bad.

4

Compare it to the new fuse to ensure they are the same size, voltage rating and wattage. Compare the wattage of the new fuse with the maximum wattage listed on the fixture's nameplate. Overheated wires and fires may result from fuses with too high of an amp rating. Throw the old fuse away and insert the new one.

5

Set the holder back into the end of the fixture and cover with the cap. Screw the cap in place tightly.

6

Wipe off the entire bulb with a dry rag to remove any accumulated dust. Clean the inside of the light fixture with an appropriate cleaner for the material from which the fixture is cast. Wipe the fixture completely dry.

7

Straighten the pins on the end of the light rod with needle-nose pliers, as needed. Gently scrub the pins and socket contacts with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any rust or stuck-on debris that will inhibit the flow of power to the bulb. Wipe the pins with a dry rag to remove the dust.

8

Insert the bulb back into the fixture. Twist to set it or gently press it back into place without putting pressure on the glass. Gently pull on the ends of the bulb to ensure it is securely seated.

9

Turn the power back on at the breaker and test the light fixture. If the light still does not turn on, consider replacing the ballast or the starter.

Things You Will Need

Screwdriver

Rags

Cleaner

Needle-nose pliers

Sandpaper, fine grit

Tip

Replacing the ballast can cost more than replacing the entire light fixture.

Warnings

Use extreme caution when removing and replacing the bulbs. The glass is very thin and fragile.

Fluorescent tubes contain mercury. If damaged, they must be disposed of in compliance with the California hazardous waste disposal regulations.

About the Author

Based in southern Virginia, Kristy Robinson has been writing for various websites since 2008. Her work focuses on tutorials and self-help articles. Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from American InterContinental University.